Papa John's Signs 200 Franchise Deals in 2012

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Papa John's International announced that it will sign more than 200 North American franchise agreements in 2012.

These franchisees, nearly half of whom represent individuals who are opening their first Papa John's restaurant, expect to create more than 5,000 new jobs over the next three years.

"We are in the business of opening more restaurants and creating more jobs that continue to stimulate the economy," says John Schnatter, founder, chairman, and CEO. "Nearly 50 percent of the new agreements signed represent individuals who are opening their first Papa John's small business franchise.

"With the average Papa John's franchisee owning three to five restaurants," he continues, "we are proud to be doing our part as a brand to keep the economic engine running for small business owners."

This announcement comes less than three months after the company communicated continuation of its industry-leading Papa John's Franchise Development Incentive Program.

The program offers zero franchise fee, zero percent royalty for 18 months, and $50,000 in restaurant equipment for new restaurants opened through 2013.

In 2012, restaurant openings under this program created approximately 3,000 jobs in North America.

Under the company's 2013 Development Incentive Program, franchisees signing development agreements in the U.S. now through 2013 can receive no franchise fee (a $25,000 value); $50,000 in equipment, including two Middleby-Marshall ovens, which may be purchased by the franchisee for $50 after operating for three years; a royalty waiver for up to 18 months; and a $3,000 food credit with PJ Food Service, which operates Papa John's fresh dough and food distribution quality-control centers, for each restaurant that opens at least 30 days prior to the scheduled opening date.

The program is generally available for new U.S. unit development agreements signed by qualifying franchisees through November 30, 2013, for new restaurant openings on or before December 29, 2013.